While acne may be famous for plaguing teens, it can also happen during adulthood. Acne is a nuisance for about 17 million Americans of all ages. Unfortunately, even if you clear up your acne, it can leave behind scars. However, your Baton Rouge, LA dermatologist can help you get rid of your acne scars and work toward a complexion you love. Find out more with your doctor at Atlas Dermatology.

What causes acne?
Doctors are not sure what exactly causes acne. However, they do know that it forms when the hair follicles becoming clogged. This can be due to hormone changes, particularly during puberty, which stimulate the sebaceous glands and causes them to produce more oil than normal. The oil comes into contact with dead skin cells, causing the pore underneath to become clogged. If bacteria grows within this clogged pore, pimples form. Serious cases of acne often leave behind scars on the skin.

Acne Scar Treatment in Baton Rouge, LA
Depending on the severity of your acne scars, your dermatologist will recommend different treatment options. Special creams containing cortisone help calm swollen scars and reduces inflammation. Lightening creams may help even the skin tone. Your dermatologist may recommend laser skin resurfacing or other dermatological treatments to even the skin’s texture. Dermal fillers can fill in deep scars which have an indention. However, dermal fillers are temporary and require touch up appointments once or twice a year.

Can I prevent acne scars?
Preventing acne scars begins with preventing acne. Your dermatologist can help you find an acne treatment routine to relieve the symptoms of acne and prevent it from forming in the future. Avoid sun exposure and always wear a wide-spectrum sun block with at least 30 SPF as the sun darkens scars. Avoid touching or picking at acne or acne scars. See your dermatologist for an examination and help with treating and preventing your acne and the scars it leaves behind.